Specimen Type/Requirements

Stool Collection Guide

Specimen: Stool. Collect random stool in a clean, dry container. Using the Para-Pak Ova and Parasite transport system transfer a portion of the stool to the 10% formalin vial and another portion to the PVA vial. Do not fill beyond fill line on the vials.

If specimen is not already in preservative mix stool with PVA 1:4 (1 part stool 4 parts PVA) and with 10% formalin 1:4 (1 part stool 3 parts 10% formalin) within 1 hour of collection. 

Green Cap Para-Pak EcoFix  - Stool (fill to line indicated): Stool must be added to EcoFix within one hour of collection. Check stool consistency (formed, loose, soft or watery) box on container.

It is recommended that no more than 2 or 3 samples/patient be submitted for routine parasitology testing. In addition, samples should not be submitted for routine parasitology testing from patients that have been in the hospital for more than 3 days.